Can genomics help us live longer and healthier lives?

This question is fuelling revolutionary research into the impact of our DNA on our health and wellbeing, and the answers could hold the key to longer and healthier lives.

Genomics – the study of a person’s entire set of DNA – is providing unprecedented insights into how our bodies grow and work. Although 99.8% of our DNA is identical to that of other humans, the 0.2% variation makes each of us unique, including our individual susceptibility to disease and how we respond to medicine or treatment.

Genetic predisposition to certain conditions contributes up to 30% of the risk of premature mortality. So by decoding the secrets of our DNA, we are unlocking a wealth of information that could help prevent illnesses before they arise. 

This article will explore the potential impact of genomics and examine how it could help increase lifespans through a more predictive, preventative and personalised approach to healthcare.

Predictive: opening a window to future health

Genomics can empower healthcare professionals to find the risks hidden in our DNA and help us develop strategies to mitigate them.

This is possible thanks to three main genomic testing methods:

• Targeted gene testing, which focuses on specific genes linked to hereditary conditions such as breast cancer or cystic fibrosis.

• Polygenic risk scores (PRS), which examine multiple gene variants to estimate the likelihood of developing complex conditions such as heart disease or diabetes.

• Whole genome sequencing (WGS), which maps the entire genome to give comprehensive insights into rare and common diseases.

Our recent global research shows that people want to take a more informed role in their own healthcare, with 90% interested in understanding their risk of developing health conditions linked to their DNA. The same report showed that 80% would adjust their health plans or behaviours if they knew they were at high genetic risk for diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or skin cancer.

A study in Iceland has demonstrated the potential of genetic screening. It found that one in 25 Icelanders carried an actionable genotype – a genetic variant linked to specific diseases. While not all carriers developed the associated illnesses, their lifespans tended to be shorter than those without these variants by around three years.

Catching these genetic risks early means we can make proactive interventions, but it’s important to stress that our genes are not our destiny. Environmental factors, lifestyle and healthcare all play critical roles, and these are areas we can act on or modify. While genomics can be a powerful tool, it’s one piece of the broader picture of health.

Preventative: taking a proactive approach to healthcare

Genomics can offer people more control over their healthcare – shifting the focus from reactive to proactive measures, and from treating diseases to preventing them. Armed with knowledge about their genetic predispositions, people can make informed choices about screening, diet, exercise routines, stress management techniques and other lifestyle factors.

For example, someone with a high PRS for breast cancer might go for mammograms earlier and more regularly, while a person predisposed to heart disease could benefit from tailored diet and exercise plans. Our global research shows that many people want to be empowered to take action, with 70% saying they would follow a health plan to lower their risk of developing diabetes if their genetic data showed they were at high risk of developing the disease. 

This preventative approach is set to become increasingly integrated into routine healthcare in the future. Huge scientific advances have dramatically lowered the cost of genomic sequencing over the past 20 years, making it much more accessible and scalable.

Bupa recently became the first major private healthcare provider in the UK and Spain to pilot whole genome sequencing. The My Genomic Health two-year pilot (called Mi Salud Genomica in Spain) will use WGS to analyse the DNA of 14,000 selected customers in the UK and Spain, and identify their risk of developing more than 60 actionable conditions, including 10 cancers. Participants will be offered a personalised plan and support to address any risks, including lifestyle modifications, targeted screenings and early interventions.

The Generation Study, led by Genomics England in partnership with NHS England, has also started looking into the potential of using WGS from birth. The pioneering study plans to screen up to 100,000 newborns to find out whether delivering early treatments for those with rare genetic conditions could potentially slow disease progression and extend lives. 

Preventative healthcare is a win-win for individuals and our industry. Detecting diseases sooner gives people the chance to put early interventions in place, and avoid health issues that could go on to dominate their lives. In addition, preventative measures can help cut the carbon footprint of the sector by reducing emissions, as follow up digital consultations with patients avoids unnecessary travel.

Personalised: tailoring treatment to DNA

What if our medication was tailored to fit the complexity of our individual biology? That’s the aim of pharmacogenomics – an emerging field at the intersection of genetics and medicine, with the potential to transform how we prescribe treatments. 

Not every drug works for every person. The late neurologist and researcher on the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease, Allen Roses, said: “More than 90% of drugs only work in 30-50% of people”. The efficacy rates of different drugs have also been reported to vary from 25% to 80%.

Pharmacogenomics examines how a person’s DNA affects their response to drugs, and could replace the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to prescriptions. For example, genetic differences can influence how quickly a person metabolises medication, whether a drug will be effective or if it might cause adverse reactions. 

In cancer treatment, analysing the genetic profile of both patient and tumour can guide drug selection, optimising effectiveness and minimising side effects. Pharmacogenomics can also help refine the dosage of blood thinners to prevent complications in cardiovascular patients.

This kind of made-to-measure medicine could make prescribed treatments safer and more effective. And while this is still an emerging field, its potential to improve outcomes, boost efficiency and reduce healthcare costs is immense.

Mapping out a healthier future

Genomics has the potential to create a paradigm shift in how we understand and approach health. But the genomic revolution is only just starting, and with this potential comes responsibility. 

We are still uncovering the complexities of the human genome, so as an industry we should continue to address ethical challenges and maintain a balanced perspective. Genomic data, privacy and consent must be carefully managed and fully understood by anyone who takes part in genomic-based healthcare. Robust frameworks are essential to ensure genetic data is stored securely, used responsibly and benefits everyone. 

So as an industry, let’s proceed with both optimism and care. In unravelling the mysteries of our DNA we can look to a future where healthcare is more predictive, preventative and personalised, and work towards the goal of helping people live longer and healthier lives.